Fiber optic connection system

ABSTRACT

The present disclosure relates to a fiber optic connection system ( 810 ) that uses a slide clip to provide robust retention of a fiber optic connector ( 820 ) within a mating fiber optic adapter ( 836 ). In certain examples, the fiber optic connector may be a hybrid connector that provides both electrical and optical connectivity.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

The present patent application claims the benefit of U.S. ProvisionalPatent Application Ser. No. 61/971,739, filed Mar. 28, 2014, whichapplication is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.

BACKGROUND

In today's telecommunications market there is growing demand to supportactive devices such as fixed location transceivers for generatingwireless communication coverage areas (e.g., Wi-Fi access points,macrocells, microcells, picocells, femtocells, other cell sizes,wireless hot spots, nodes, etc.), power-over-Ethernet extenders, OpticalNetwork Terminals (ONT) that provide optical to electrical signalconversion, and IP devices (e.g., digital cameras such as securitycameras, computing devices, etc.). There is also desire to support suchdevices with faster transmission rates, higher power and longer spans.To achieve faster transmission rates, it is desirable to support suchactive devices using an optical fiber network. However, traditionalfiber optic networks are generally passive (e.g., passive optical localarea networks (POLAN), fiber-to-the-home (FTTH), fiber-to-the-desk(FTTD), fiber-to-the-node (FTTN), fiber-to-the-curb (FTTC) and othernetwork architectures) and therefore do not provide ready access topower. Thus, there is a need to support active devices with bothelectrical power and optical signals in a cost-effective manner. Thereis also a need to integrate hybrid connectivity (e.g., both electricalpower and fiber optics) into existing fiber optic networks.

SUMMARY

Aspects of the present disclosure relate to connectors and connectorsystems capable of providing optical connections and electrical powerconnections in a telecommunications network such as a fiber opticnetwork. In certain examples, the connectors and connector systems canbe hardened (e.g., sealed and ruggedized) for use in outdoorenvironmental applications. In certain examples, the connectors andconnector systems can be used to provide efficient power and fiberconnections in a mobile network topology. In certain examples, theconnectors and connector systems can be used with cables having centralsections containing optical fibers and strippable outer sectionsincluding electrical power conductors. In certain examples, the hybridconnectors can be small form-factor connectors. In certain examples, thehybrid connectors can be suitable for use in indoor passive opticallocal area networks or outdoor networks. In certain examples, the hybridconnectors can include robust configurations for providing retention ofthe connectors within mating fiber optic adapters. In certain examples,active robust coupling structure can be provided with the fiber opticadapters rather than the connectors.

Another aspect of the present disclosure relates to a hybrid fiber opticconnector including a connector body having a transverse cross-sectionalshape. The connector body includes two generally cylindrical sleeves ata front of the connector body. The two generally cylindrical sleeveseach include a separate ferrule mounted therein. Electrical contactsmount over the two generally cylindrical sleeves so as to be carriedwith the connector body.

A further aspect of the present disclosure relates to a fiber opticconnector including a connector body that supports first and secondferrules each supporting an optical fiber. The fiber optic connectoralso includes first and second shutters pivotally movable relative tothe connector body between open and closed positions. The first shuttercorresponds to the first ferrule and the second shutter corresponds tothe second ferrule. End faces of the first and second ferrules arecovered when the first and second shutters are in the closed position.The end faces of the first and second ferrules are accessible when thefirst and second shutters are in the open position.

Still another aspect of the present disclosure relates to a hybrid fiberoptic connector including a connector body that supports first andsecond ferrules each supporting an optical fiber. The hybrid fiber opticconnector also includes electrical contacts mounted in a region betweenthe first and second ferrules.

A further aspect of the present disclosure relates to a fiber opticconnection system including a connector body that supports at least oneferrule supporting at least one optical fiber, and a fiber optic adapterdefining a port for receiving the connector body. The fiber opticconnection system also includes an environmental seal for providing aseal between the connector body and the fiber optic adapter. The fiberoptic connection system further includes a robust active coupler mountedto the fiber optic adapter and not carried with the connector body. Therobust active coupler is movable relative to the fiber optic adapter andis configured to retain the connector body within the port. The robustactive coupler is configured to retain the connector body within theport so as to withstand a pull-out force of at least 25 pounds.

Still another aspect of the present disclosure relates to a fiber opticconnection system including a connector body that supports at least oneferrule supporting at least one optical fiber, and a fiber optic adapterdefining a port for receiving the connector body. The system alsoincludes a slide clip mounted to the fiber optic adapter and not carriedwith the connector body. The slide clip is movable relative to the fiberoptic adapter between a coupling position and non-coupling position. Theslide clip is configured to retain the connector body within the portwhen in the coupling position, and is configured to allow removal of theconnector body from the port when in the non-coupling position.

A further aspect of the present disclosure relates to a hardened fiberoptic connection system. The system includes a fiber optic connectordefining a longitudinal axis, and a fiber optic adapter defining a portfor receiving the fiber optic connector. The system also includes a sealfor providing environmental sealing between the fiber optic connectorand the fiber optic adapter when the fiber optic connector is receivedwithin the port of the fiber optic adapter. The system further includesa retention clip mounted on the fiber optic connector or the fiber opticadapter for retaining the fiber optic connector within the port of thefiber optic adapter. The retention clip is configured to slide in atransverse orientation relative to the longitudinal axis between acoupling position and a non-coupling position. A spring is provided forbiasing the retention clip towards the coupling position. The retentionclip slides from the coupling position to the non-coupling position asthe fiber optic connector is being axially inserted into the port of thefiber optic adapter. The spring move the retention clip from thenon-coupling position back to the coupling position once the fiber opticconnector has been fully axially inserted into the port of the fiberoptic adapter.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a system diagram showing an example distribution architectureincluding wireless coverage areas deployed using a power and opticalfiber interface system;

FIG. 2 is a transverse cross-sectional view of an electricalpower/optical fiber hybrid cable used in the architecture of FIG. 1;

FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a portion of the hybrid cable of FIG. 2with electrically conductive portions of the cable showing separatedfrom a central optical fiber portion of the cable;

FIG. 4 is a plan view of the hybrid cable of FIGS. 2 and 3 with theelectrically conductive portions of the hybrid cable trimmed relative tothe central fiber optic portion of the hybrid cable;

FIG. 5 is a transverse cross-sectional view of another electricalpower/optical fiber hybrid cable in accordance with principles of thepresent disclosure;

FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a hybrid electrical and fiber opticconnector in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure;

FIG. 7 is another view of the hybrid electrical and fiber opticconnector in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure;

FIG. 8 is a front end view of the hybrid electrical and fiber opticconnector of FIGS. 6 and 7;

FIG. 9 shows a fiber optic adapter configured to receive the hybridelectrical and fiber optic connector of FIGS. 6-8 within an outer portof the fiber optic adapter;

FIG. 10 is another view of the fiber optic adapter of FIG. 9;

FIG. 11 is still another view of the fiber optic adapter of FIG. 9;

FIG. 12 is an end view of the adapter of FIGS. 9-11 showing an inner enddefining an inner port adapted to receive LC fiber optic connectors(e.g., duplex LC connectors);

FIG. 13 shows another hybrid electrical and fiber optic connector inaccordance with the principles of the present disclosure with protectiveshutters shown in a closed position suitable for covering the ferruleends;

FIG. 14 is another view of the hybrid electrical and fiber opticconnector of FIG. 13 with the shutters in the closed position;

FIG. 15 illustrates the hybrid electrical and fiber optic connector ofFIGS. 13 and 14 with shutters shown in an open position;

FIG. 16 shows another hybrid optical and electrical connection system inaccordance with the principles of the present disclosure;

FIG. 17 is an exploded view of a hybrid connector of the hybrid opticaland electrical connection system of FIG. 16;

FIG. 18 is a front end view of the hybrid connector of FIG. 17;

FIG. 19 is an exploded view of a hybrid adapter of the hybrid opticaland electrical connection system of FIG. 16;

FIG. 20 is a partial cross-sectional view of the hybrid optical andelectrical connection system of FIG. 16;

FIG. 21 is a cross-sectional view showing the hybrid connector alignedwith a port of the hybrid adapter, a slide clip of the hybrid adapter isshown in a coupling position;

FIG. 22 is a cross-sectional view showing the hybrid connector insertedinto the fiber optic adapter to a point where a ramp surface of thehybrid connector engaging a ramp surface of the slide clip, the slideclip is still in the coupling position;

FIG. 23 is a cross-sectional view showing the hybrid connector insertedinto the fiber optic adapter to a point where engagement of the rampsurfaces has caused the slide clip to move to a non-coupling positionadapted for allowing the hybrid connector to pass through the slideclip;

FIG. 24 is a cross-sectional view showing the hybrid connector fullyinserted into the fiber optic adapter and the slide clip moved to acoupling position where the slide clip retains the hybrid connectorwithin the hybrid adapter; and

FIG. 25 is a cross-sectional view showing the hybrid connector fullyinserted into the fiber optic adapter and the slide clip being manuallydepressed to the non-coupling position so as to allow the hybridconnector to be removed from the hybrid adapter.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

In the following Detailed Description, reference is made to theaccompanying drawings, which form a part hereof, and in which is shownby way of illustration specific embodiments in which the invention maybe practiced. In this regard, directional terminology, such as top,bottom, front, back, etc., is used with reference to the orientation ofthe Figure(s) being described. Because components of embodiments can bepositioned in a number of different orientations, the directionalterminology is used for purposes of illustration and is in no waylimiting. It is to be understood that other embodiments may be utilizedand structural or logical changes may be made without departing from thescope of the present invention. The following detailed description,therefore, is not to be taken in a limiting sense.

FIG. 1 shows a system 10 in accordance with the principles of thepresent disclosure for enhancing the coverage areas provided by cellulartechnologies (e.g., GSM, CDMA, UMTS, LTE, WiMax, WiFi, etc.). The system10 includes a base location 11 (i.e., a hub) and a plurality of wirelesscoverage area defining equipment 12 a, 12 b, 12 c, 12 d, 12 e and 12 f(sometimes collectively referred to as equipment 12 herein) distributedabout the base location 11. In certain examples, the base location 11can include a structure 14 (e.g., a closet, hut, building, housing,enclosure, cabinet, etc.) protecting telecommunications equipment suchas racks, fiber optic adapter panels, passive optical splitters,wavelength division multiplexers, fiber splice locations, optical fiberpatching and/or fiber interconnect structures and other active and/orpassive equipment. In the depicted example, the base location 11 isconnected to a central office 16 or other remote location by a fiberoptic cable such as a multi-fiber optical trunk cable 18 that provideshigh band-width two-way optical communication between the base location11 and the central office 16 or other remote location. In the depictedexample, the base location 11 is connected to the wireless coverage areadefining equipment 12 a, 12 b, 12 c, 12 d, 12 e and 12 f by hybridcables 20. The hybrid cables 20 are each capable of transmitting bothpower and communications between the base location 11 and the wirelesscoverage area defining equipment 12 a, 12 b, 12 c, 12 d, 12 e and 12 f.

The wireless coverage area defining equipment 12 a, 12 b, 12 c, 12 d, 12e and 12 f can each include one or more wireless transceivers 22. Thetransceivers 22 can include single transceivers 22 or distributed arraysof transceivers 22. As used herein, a “wireless transceiver” is a deviceor arrangement of devices capable of transmitting and receiving wirelesssignals. A wireless transceiver typically includes an antenna forenhancing receiving and transmitting the wireless signals. Wirelesscoverage areas are defined around each of the wireless coverage areadefining equipment 12 a, 12 b, 12 c, 12 d, 12 e and 12 f. Wirelesscoverage areas can also be referred to as cells, cellular coverageareas, wireless coverage zones, or like terms. Examples of and/oralternative terms for wireless transceivers include radio-heads,wireless routers, cell sites, wireless nodes, etc.

In the depicted example of FIG. 1, the base location 11 is shown as abase transceiver station (BTS) located adjacent to a radio tower 24supporting and elevating a plurality the wireless coverage area definingequipment 12 a. In one example, the equipment 12 a can define wirelesscoverage areas such as a macrocells or microcells (i.e., cells eachhaving a coverage area less than or equal to about 2 kilometers wide).The wireless coverage area defining equipment 12 b is shown deployed ata suburban environment (e.g., on a light pole in a residentialneighborhood) and the equipment 12 c is shown deployed at a roadsidearea (e.g., on a roadside power pole). The equipment 12 c could also beinstalled at other locations such as tunnels, canyons, coastal areas,etc. In one example, the equipment 12 b, 12 c can define wirelesscoverage areas such as microcells or picocells (i.e., cells each havinga coverage area equal to or less than about 200 meters wide). Theequipment 12 d is shown deployed at a campus location (e.g., auniversity or corporate campus), the equipment 12 e is shown deployed ata large public venue location (e.g., a stadium), and the equipment 12 fis shown installed at an in-building or near-building environment (e.g.,multi-dwelling unit, high rise, school, etc.). In one example, theequipment 12 d, 12 e, and 12 f can define wireless coverage areas suchas microcells, picocells, or femtocells (i.e., cells each having acoverage area equal to or less than about 10 meters wide).

The wireless coverage area defining equipment 12 are often located inareas without power outlets conveniently located. As noted above, thehybrid cable 20 provides both power and data to the equipment 12. FIG. 2is a transverse cross-sectional view taken through an example of one ofthe hybrid cables 20 of FIG. 1. Hybrid cable 20 includes an outer jacket100 having a transverse cross-sectional profile that defines a majoraxis 102 and a minor axis 104. The outer jacket has a height H measuredalong the minor axis 104 and a width W measured along the major axis102. The width W is greater than the height H such that the transversecross-sectional profile of the outer jacket 100 is elongated along themajor axis 102.

The outer jacket 100 can include a left portion 106, a right portion 108and a central portion 110. The left portion 106, the right portion 108and the central portion 110 can be positioned along the major axis 102with the central portion 110 being disposed between the left portion 106and the right portion 108. The left portion 106 can define a leftpassage 112, the right portion 108 can define a right passage 114 andthe central portion 110 can define a central passage 116. The passages112, 114 and 116 can have lengths that extend along a centrallongitudinal axis 118 of the cable 20 for the length of the cable. Aleft electrical conductor 120 is shown positioned within the leftpassage 112, a right electrical conductor 122 is shown positioned withinthe right passage 114 and at least one optical fiber 124 is shownpositioned within the central passage 116. Certain embodiments includefrom 1 to 12 fibers 124, for example. The left electrical conductor 120,the right electrical conductor 122 and the optical fiber 124 havelengths that extend along the central longitudinal axis 118 of the cable20.

Still referring to FIG. 2, the hybrid cable 20 includes a leftpre-defined tear location 126 positioned between the central portion 110and the left portion 106 of the outer jacket 100, and a rightpre-defined tear location 128 positioned between the central portion 110and the right portion 108 of the outer jacket 100. The left pre-definedtear location 126 is weakened such that the left portion 106 of theouter jacket 100 can be manually torn from the central portion 110 ofthe outer jacket 100. Similarly, the right pre-defined tear location 128is weakened such that the right portion 108 of the outer jacket 100 canbe manually torn from the central portion 110 of the outer jacket 100.The left pre-defined tear location 126 is configured such that the leftportion 106 of the outer jacket 100 fully surrounds the left passage 112and the central portion 110 of the outer jacket 100 fully surrounds thecentral passage 116 after the left portion 106 of the outer jacket 100has been torn from the central portion 110 of the outer jacket 100. Inthis way, the left electrical conductor 120 remains fully insulated andthe optical fiber 120 remains fully protected after the left portion 106has been torn from the central portion 110. The right pre-defined tearlocation 128 is configured such that the right portion 108 of the outerjacket 100 fully surrounds the right passage 114 and the central portion110 of the outer jacket 100 fully surrounds the central passage 119after the right portion 108 of the outer jacket 100 has been torn fromthe central portion 110 of the outer jacket 100. In this way, the rightelectrical conductor 122 remains fully insulated and the optical fiber124 remains fully protected after the right portion 108 has been tornfrom the central portion 110.

FIG. 3 shows the hybrid cable 20 with both the left portion 106 and theright portion 108 torn away from the central portion 110. In thisconfiguration, both the left electrical conductor 120 and the rightelectrical conductor 122 are fully insulated by their corresponding leftand right portions 106, 108. Additionally, the central portion 110 has arectangular transverse cross-sectional shape that fully surrounds thecentral passage 116 so as to protect the optical fiber or fibers 124.

It will be appreciated that the left and right electrical conductors120, 122 have a construction suitable for carrying electricity. It willbe appreciated that the electrical conductors can have a solid orstranded construction. Example sizes of the electrical conductorsinclude 12 gauge, 16 gauge, or other sizes.

The outer jacket 100 is preferably constructed of a polymeric material.In one example, the hybrid cable 20 and the outer jacket 100 are plenumrated. In certain examples, the outer jacket 100 can be manufactured ofa fire-retardant plastic material. In certain examples, the outer jacket100 can be manufactured of a low smoke zero halogen material. Examplematerials for the outer jacket include polyvinyl chloride (PVC),fluorinated ethylene polymer (FEP), polyolefin formulations including,for example, polyethylene, and other materials.

The central passage 116 can contain one or more optical fibers 124. Incertain examples, the optical fibers 124 can be coated optical fibershaving cores less than 12 microns in diameter, cladding layers less than240 microns in diameter, and coating layers less than 300 microns indiameter. It will be appreciated that the core and cladding layerstypically include a silica based material. In certain examples, thecladding layer can have an index of a refraction that is less than theindex of refraction of the core to allow optical signals that aretransmitted through the optical fibers to be confined generally to thecore. It will be appreciated that in certain examples, multiple claddinglayers can be provided. In certain examples, optical fibers can includebend insensitive optical fibers having multiple cladding layersseparated by trench layers. In certain examples, protective coatings(e.g., a polymeric material such as actelate) can form coating layersaround the cladding layers. In certain examples, the coating layers canhave diameters less than 300 microns, or less than 260 microns, or inthe range of 240 to 260 microns. In certain examples, the optical fibers124 can be unbuffered. In other examples, the optical fibers can includea tight buffer layer, a loose buffer layer, or a semi-tight bufferlayer. In certain examples, the buffer layers can have an outer diameterof about 800 to 1,000 microns. The optical fibers can include singlemode optical fibers, multi-mode optical fibers, bend insensitive fibersor other fibers. In still other embodiments, the optical fibers 124 canbe ribbonized.

As shown at FIG. 4, the left and right portions 106, 108 can be trimmedrelative to the central portion 110 after the left and right portions106, 108 have been torn away from the central portion 110. In thisconfiguration, the central portion 110 extends distally beyond the endsof the left and right portions 106, 108. In certain examples, insulationdisplacement connectors can be used to pierce through the jacketmaterials of the left and right portions 106, 108 to electricallyconnect the left and right electrical connectors 120, 122 to anelectrical power source, ground, active components or other structures.It will be appreciated that the optical fibers 124 can be connected toother fibers with mechanical or fusion splices, or directly terminatedwith optical connectors. In other examples, connectorized pigtails canbe spliced to the ends of the optical fibers 124.

Referring back to FIG. 2, the outer jacket 100 includes a top side 130and a bottom side 132 separated by the height H. As depicted, the topand bottom sides 130, 132 are generally parallel to one another. Each ofthe left and right pre-defined tear locations 126, 128 includes an upperslit 134 that extends downwardly from the top side 130, a lower slit 136that extends upwardly from the bottom side 132 and a non-slitted portion138 positioned between the upper and lower slits 134, 136. In oneexample embodiment, the upper and lower slits 134, 136 are partiallyre-closed slits. In the depicted embodiment, the left and rightpre-defined tear locations 126, 128 also include jacket weakeningmembers 140 that are imbedded in the non-slitted portions 138. By way ofexample, the jacket weakening members 140 can include strands,monofilaments, threads, filaments or other members. In certain examples,the jacket weakening members 140 extend along the central longitudinalaxis 118 of the cable 20 for the length of the cable 20. In certainexamples, the jacket weakening members 140 are aligned along the majoraxis 102. In certain examples, the upper and lower slits 134, 136 aswell as the jacket weakening member 140 of the left pre-defined tearlocation 126 are aligned along a left tearing plane PL that is orientedgenerally perpendicular relative to the major axis 102. Similarly, theupper and lower slits 134, 136 as well as the jacket weakening member140 of the right pre-defined tear location 128 are aligned along a righttearing plane PR that is oriented generally perpendicular with respectto the major axis 102.

Referring again to FIG. 2, the hybrid cable 20 can include a tensilestrength structure 142 that provides tensile enforcement to the hybridcable 20 so as to prevent tensile loads from being applied to theoptical fibers 124. In certain embodiments, the tensile strengthstructure 142 can include reinforcing structures such as Aramid yarns orother reinforcing fibers. In still other embodiments, the tensilestrength structure 142 can have an oriented polymeric construction. Instill other examples, a tensile strength structure 142 can include areinforcing tape. In certain examples, the reinforcing tape can bebonded to the outer jacket 100 so as to line the central passage 116. Incertain examples, no central buffer tube is provided between the opticalfibers 124 and the tensile reinforcing structure 142. In certainexamples, the tensile strength structure 142 can include a reinforcingtape that extends along the length of the hybrid cable 20 and haslongitudinal edges/ends 144 that are separated so as to define a gap 144therein between. In use, the tensile strength member 142 can be anchoredto a structure such as a fiber optic connector, housing or otherstructure so as to limit the transfer of tensile load to the opticalfibers 124. It will be appreciated that the tensile strength structure142 can be anchored by techniques such as crimping, adhesives,fasteners, bands or other structures.

FIG. 5 shows an alternative hybrid cable 20′ having the sameconstruction as the hybrid cable 20 except two tensile strengthstructures 142 a, 142 b have been provided within the central passage116. Tensile strength members 142 a, 142 b each include a tensilereinforcing tape that is bonded to the central portion 110 of the outerjacket 100. The tensile strength members 142 a, 142 b can includeportions that circumferentially overlap one another within the centralpassage 116. In certain examples, by stripping away an end portion ofthe central portion 110, the tensile strength structures 142 a, 142 bcan be exposed and readily secured to a structure such as a fiber opticconnector, a panel, a housing or other structure.

As noted above, the electrical conductors 120, 122 could be 12 gauge(AWG) or 16 gauge, for example. In certain examples, a 12 gaugeconductor 120, 120 provides up to 1175 meter reach at 15 W, and a 750meter reach for 25 W devices. The 16 gauge implementations can providereduced cost for shorter reach applications or lower power devices, forexample.

Providing power to remote active devices such as the wireless coveragearea defining equipment 12 is often difficult and expensive. Providingrequired power protection and backup power further complicates poweringsuch remote devices. Optical Network Terminals (ONT's) and Small Celldevices (such as picocells and metrocells) have “similar” powerrequirements. For example, 25 W, 12 VDC or 48 VDC devices are common,although variations occur.

FIG. 6 illustrates a hybrid electrical and fiber optic connector 620 inaccordance with the principles of the present disclosure. In oneexample, the connector 620 is adapted to be used in combination with thehybrid cable 20 and includes ferrules 622 that receive optical fibers ofthe hybrid cable 20 and also includes electrical contacts 624 that areadapted to be electrically connected to the electrical conductors 120,122 of the hybrid cable 20. The connector 620 includes a connector body626 having a transverse cross-sectional shape that complements ormatches the transverse cross-sectional shape of the hybrid cable 20. Forexample, the transverse cross-sectional shape of the connector body 626can be elongate and generally oval shaped. In one example, thetransverse cross-sectional shape of the connector body 626 can include amajor axis M1 and a minor axis M2 (see FIG. 8), with a height H1measured along the minor axis M2 and a width W1 measured along the majoraxis M1. Preferably, the width W1 is greater than the height H1 suchthat the transverse cross-sectional profile of the connector body 626 iselongated along the major axis M1. In certain examples, opposite ends ofthe connector body 626 are rounded. In certain examples, the transversecross-sectional profile of the connector body 626 has major sides 627that are positioned on opposite sides of the major axis M1 and thatextend along the width W1. The transverse cross-sectional profile of theconnector body 626 also includes minor sides 629 that positioned onopposite sides of the minor axis M2 that extend along the height H1between the major sides 627. The major sides 627 are parallel and extendbetween the minor sides 629. The minor sides 629 form opposite roundedends of the transverse cross-sectional profile.

Referring to FIGS. 6 and 7, the connector body 626 includes twoforwardly positioned, cylindrical sleeves 628. The ferrules 622 aremounted within the sleeve 628. An intermediate structure 630 can bepositioned generally between the sleeve 628. Intermediate structures 630can include a key feature 632 that ensures the connector 620 is insertedinto an adapter at a suitable rotational orientation. The intermediatestructure 630 can also include catches or latch features adapted toengage a latch of an adapter for receiving the connector 620. Theconnector body 626 defines a first peripheral groove 634 for receiving asealing member or element such as an O-ring. The connector body 626 alsoincludes another peripheral groove 636 (e.g., second peripheral groove)spaced from the peripheral groove 634. The second peripheral groove 636can be adapted for receiving a retention member of an adapter configuredfor receiving the connector 620. For example, when the connector 620 isinserted within the adapter, the retention member can be slid orotherwise moved into the second peripheral groove 636 so as to lock theconnector 620 within the adapter.

Referring still to FIGS. 6 and 7, the electrical contacts 624 depictedas electrically conductive bands or sleeves that mount over the sleeve628. In certain examples, the bands or sleeves can include anelectrically conductive material such as metal.

FIGS. 9-12 illustrate an adapter 638 configured for receiving theconnector 620. In certain examples, adapter 638 is configured foroptically coupling the optical fibers supported by the connector 620 toresponding optical fibers of other optical connectors. Additionally, theadapter 638 is configured for electrically connecting the electricalcontact 624 to electrical contacts of the adapter. Electrical contactsof the adapter allow power to be routed from the connector 620 to one ormore active components in need of power. Thus, optical signals can beconfigured to pass through the adapter 638 from the connector 620 to oneor more other fiber optic connectors, while electrical power from theconnector 620 is routed laterally out from the connector 620 and is notdirected to the corresponding fiber optic connectors.

As depicted at FIGS. 9-11, adapter 638 includes opposite receptacles640, 642. The receptacle 640 is adapted for receiving the connector 620,and the receptacle 642 is adapted for receiving standard fiber opticconnectors (e.g., LC connectors or other types of fiber opticconnectors). The adapter 638 includes internal alignment sleeves 644 forcoaxially aligning the ferrules 622 of the connector 620 withcorresponding ferrules of the connectors inserted within the receptacle642. The adapter 638 can include an internal flexible latch adapted forengaging the latch feature on the connector 620. The adapter 638 alsoincludes a locking element 646 (e.g., a clip or wedge) that is slid intothe peripheral groove 636 when the connector 620 is inserted within thereceptacle 640 so as to lock the connector 620 within the receptacle640. It will be appreciated that the locking element 646 can be slidrelative to the main body of the adapter 638 between a locking positionand a non-locking position. When the connector 620 is inserted withinthe receptacle 640, the seal within the first peripheral groove 634 canprovide a peripheral seal between the exterior of the connector body 626and a corresponding sealing surface provided within the receptacle 640of the adapter 638. It will be appreciated that the seal may be optionalfor certain applications such as indoor applications.

In certain examples, the locking element 646 can slide along the majoraxis M1 of the connector 620 when moving between the locking andunlocking positions. When in the locking position, the locking element646 can engage the connector 620 on opposite sides of the connector body628. For example, the locking element 646 can engage both of the majorsides 627 of the transverse cross-sectional profile of the connectorbody 628 so that retaining engagement is provided on opposite sides ofthe major axis M1. In other examples, an alternate locking element mayslide along the minor axis M2 and provide retaining engagement onopposite sides of the minor axis M2 (e.g., the locking element mayengage both of the minor sides of the transverse cross-sectional profileof the connector).

In certain examples, the locking element 646 provides robust retentionof the connector body 628 within the fiber optic adapter 638. In certainexamples, the locking element 646 engages the connector body 628 suchthat the connection can resist a pull-out force of at least 25 pounds orat least 50 pounds. In certain examples, the locking element 646 can bemounted with the fiber optic adapter 638 and not carried with theconnector body 628. Thus, the active portion (i.e., the movable portion)of the robust retention system can be provided with the fiber opticadapter and not the connector. This allows the fiber optic connector tohave a transverse cross-sectional shape with a relatively small formfactor. A connector with a small cross-sectional form factor can assistin routing connectorized cables along various pathways having relativelysmall clearances. In one example, the maximum width W1 of the transversecross-sectional shape of the connector 620 is less than 2 centimetersand the maximum height H1 of the transverse cross-sectional shape of theconnector 620 is less than 1.5 centimeters. In one example, the maximumwidth W1 is about 1.8 centimeters and the maximum height H1 is about 1.2centimeters. In certain examples, the active portion of the retentionsystem that is integrated within the adapter can include a slide clip.In other examples, the active portion of the retention system that isintegrated or otherwise included with the adapter includes otherstructures such as rotating sleeves, collars, nuts or other fasteningelements that may include fastening parts such as threads, bayonetstructures or other structures.

The adapter 638 can include an adapter flange 648 and an external latch650. The flange 648 and the latch 650 can be configured to secure theadapter 638 within an opening such as an opening in a panel or in anenclosure. In certain examples, seal can be provided adjacent the flangefor providing a seal between the adapter 638 and the structure to whichthe adapter is mounted.

Referring to FIGS. 9 and 10, electrical contacts 652 are mounted onopposite sides of the main body of the adapter 638. The electricalcontacts include internal portions 654 that are positioned within thereceptacle 640 and that are adapted to engage the electrical contacts624 of the connectors 620 when the connector 620 is secured within thereceptacle 640. The electrical contacts 652 also include externalportions 656 that project outwardly from the main body of the adapter638 so as to be accessible from the exterior of the adapter 638. Theexternal portions 656 can be electrically connected (e.g., wired orotherwise electrically connected) to active devices in need ofelectrical power from the hybrid cable 20.

Referring to FIG. 11, the main body of the adapter 638 can have atwo-piece construction including a first piece 658 defining thereceptacle 640 and a second piece 660 defining one or more portscorresponding to the receptacle 642. In certain examples, first andsecond parts can be interconnected by a snap-fit connection. As shown atFIGS. 11 and 12, the second piece of the adapter 638 defines thereceptacle 642 and the receptacle 642 has a duplex configurationconfigured for receiving two LC-style fiber optic connectors.

FIGS. 13-15 illustrate an alternative hybrid electrical and fiber opticconnector 720 in accordance with the principles of the presentdisclosure. The connector 720 includes two separate ferrules 722 mountedin corresponding sleeves of a connector body 719. When the connector 720is not fully inserted within an adapter 721, shutters 723 protect endfaces of the ferrules 722. As shown at FIG. 14, electrical contacts 725can be provided at a center position between the two ferrules 722.Electrical contacts 725 are adapted to be connected to the electricalconductors of the hybrid cable 20 when the connector 720 is mounted tothe end of the hybrid cable 20. Similarly, the separate ferrules 722 areadapted to receive optical fibers of the hybrid cable 20 when theconnector 720 is mounted at the end of the cable 20. Similar to thepreviously described embodiment, the connector 720 can be secured withina corresponding adapter such as the adapter 721. The adapter 721 caninclude a connector retention feature such as a slide clip 746 of thetype previously described. In certain examples, the adapter can includeramp structures 770 for automatically moving the shutters 723 from aclosed position to an open position as the connector 720 is fullyinserted within the adapter 721 (see FIG. 15). It will be appreciatedthat the connector body 719 of the connector 720 can have an elongatetransverse cross-sectional shape and size comparable to the connector620.

In certain alternative examples, a sliding retention element orcomponent (e.g., a slide clip) can be carried with the connector. Whenthe connector is inserted within its corresponding adapter, the slidingretention element can be moved from a non-retaining position to aretaining position. With the clip in the retaining position, theconnector is effectively locked within the adapter.

FIG. 16 illustrates a hybrid electrical and fiber optic connectionsystem 810 in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure.The connection system 810 is adapted to provide both optical (e.g., forfiber optic communications) and electrical (e.g., for electrical power)connectivity. The connection system 810 includes a hybrid connector 820configured to mate with a corresponding hybrid adapter 836. The hybridconnector 820 is shown mounted at the end of a hybrid cable 811. Thehybrid cable 811 is shown having an outer jacket with an elongatecross-sectional shape (i.e., flat cable). A plurality of optical fibers812 extend through a central passage defined by the jacket. In oneexample, two optical fibers 812 are provided within the jacket of thehybrid cable 811. Electrical conductors 813 also extend through thejacket of the hybrid cable 811. The electrical conductors 813 arepositioned on opposite sides of the central passage containing theoptical fibers 812. The hybrid adapter 836 is shown mounted within aport 814 (see FIG. 19) of a structure 815 (e.g., a panel, a wall, a wallof a housing, etc.). In certain examples, the structure 815 can includean enclosure such as an optical network terminal, a camera housing, anenclosure housing wireless connectivity equipment such as small celldevices, or other types of enclosures.

Referring to FIG. 17, the hybrid connector 820 includes a connector body821 having a front end 822 and a rear end 823. A longitudinal axis 824of the connector extends through the hybrid connector 820 infront-to-rear direction. Two front sleeves 825 are provided at the frontend 822 of the connector body 821. Keying structures 826 are provided ina region generally between the front sleeves 825. The keying structures826 can mate with corresponding keying structures provided in the hybridadapter 830 to ensure that the hybrid connector is oriented in theproper rotational orientation when inserted into the hybrid adapter 836.

Referring still to FIG. 17, the connector body 821 defines a peripheralgroove 827 that extends around the longitudinal axis 824 and about acircumference of the connector body 821. The peripheral groove 827 isadapted for receiving a seal 828 that provides an environmental sealbetween the connector body 821 and the hybrid adapter 836 when thehybrid connector 820 is mated with the hybrid adapter 836. The connectorbody 821 also includes a peripheral retention flange 829 that extendsaround the longitudinal axis 824 and about the circumference of theconnector body 821. The retention flange 829 includes a retentionsurface 830 that faces in a rearward direction such that the retentionsurface 830 faces outwardly from the hybrid adapter 836 when the hybridconnector 820 is being inserted therein. The retention flange 829defines side notches 831 which are formed by gaps in the retentionflange 829. Ramps 832 can be provided at the side notches 831.

As indicated above, the hybrid connector 820 can be configured toprovide both fiber optic and electrical conductivity. In this regard,ferrules 833 supporting the optical fibers 812 of the hybrid cable 811can be mounted within the cylindrical front sleeves 825. In certainexamples, one ferrule 833 can be mounted within each of the frontsleeves 825. In certain examples, the ferrules 833 can be spring-biasedin a forward direction relative to the connector body 821. The hybridconnector 820 also includes connector electrical contacts 834 havingpartial cylinders 835 that mount over the front sleeves 825. Theconnector electrical contacts 834 also include rear tails 837 thatextend rearwardly through the connector body 821. The rear tails 837 areadapted to be electrically connected to the electrical conductors 813 ofthe hybrid cable 811.

The hybrid connector 820 can also include a rear housing 838 that mountsto the rear end 823 of the connector body 821 by means such as asnap-fit connection or other connection technique. The rear housing 838includes two mating half-pieces 838 a, 838 b that mount to the rear end823 of the connector body 821. In certain examples, forward portions 839of the half-pieces 838 a, 838 b can fit inside the rear end 823 of theconnector body 821. Tabs 840 of the rear housing 838 can snap withincorresponding openings 841 of the connector body 821 to retain the rearhousing 838 in place relative to the connector body 821. The rearhousing 838 can define an interior receptacle 842 having an elongatetransverse cross-section sized to receive a jacketed end the hybridcable 811. The rear housing 830 can define a central opening 843 forrouting the optical fibers 812 from the hybrid cable 811 to the interiorof the connector body 821 for termination at the ferrules 833. Theforward portions 839 of the half-pieces 838 a, 838 b can define openingssuch as slits 844 for receiving the rear tails 837 of the connectorelectrical contacts 834. In this way, the rear tails 837 can extend intothe receptacle 842 of the rear housing 838 to facilitate makingelectrical contact with the connector electrical conductors 813 of thehybrid cable 811.

In certain examples, the hybrid connector 820 can include an outersleeve 845 that fits over the exterior of the hybrid cable 811 and alsofits over the exteriors of the rear housing 838 and the connector body821. In certain examples, the outer sleeve 845 can provide a sealedinterface between the outer jacket of the hybrid cable 811 and theexterior of the hybrid connector 820. In certain examples, the outersleeve 845 extends forwardly generally to the retention surface 830 ofthe retention flange 829. In one example embodiment, the outer sleeve845 can be a shape memory material such as a heat-shrink tube. Incertain examples, adhesive can be provided within the outer sleeve 845to facilitate sealing and retention. It will be appreciated that theouter sleeve 845 can function to assist in securing the rear housing 838to the connector body 821. The outer sleeve 845 can also provide aretention function for assisting in axially securing the hybrid cable811 to the hybrid connector 820.

Referring to FIG. 18, the connector body 821 has an elongate transversecross-sectional shape that is elongated so as to be longer along a majoraxis M3 as compared to along a minor axis M4. In certain examples,connector body 821 defines a width W2 along the major axis M3 that islonger than a height H2 defined along the minor axis M4. As shown atFIG. 18, ferrules 833 are aligned along the major axis M3. Also, theside notches 831 are positioned on opposite sides of the major axis M3.The connector body 821 has major sides 846 positioned on opposite sidesof the major axis M3 and minor sides 847 positioned on opposite sides ofthe minor axis M4. The side notches 831 are provided at the major sides846. The minor sides 847 define rounded ends of the elongate transversecross-sectional shape of the connector body 821.

Referring to FIG. 19, the hybrid adapter 836 is configured to mountwithin the port 814 of the structure 815. The hybrid adapter 836includes an adapter housing 850 defined by an outer part 851 and aninner part 852. In the depicted example, the outer part 851 defines aport 853 sized for receiving the hybrid connector 820 and the inner part852 defines one or more ports 854 for receiving fiber optic connectors(e.g., LC connectors, duplex LC connectors, SC connectors, or othertypes of connectors). The outer part 851 includes flexible extensions856 having tabs 857 for retaining the outer part 851 within the port 814by a snap-fit connection. The inner part 852 mounts between theextensions 856 and includes recesses 858 that receive tabs 859 of theouter part 851 to secure the parts 851, 852 together. Adapter electricalcontacts 860 mount at an outer end of the inner part 852. In certainexamples, the adapter electrical contacts 860 mounted within theinterior of the inner part 852. The adapter electrical contacts 860 caninclude C-shaped portions 862 for engaging the connector electricalcontacts 834 and tabs 863 for allowing the adapter electrical contacts860 to be electrically connected (e.g., wired) to an active component inneed of power.

Referring to FIG. 20, the hybrid adapter 836 can include internalsleeves 864 positioned within the interior of the hybrid adapter 836.The sleeves 864 can be configured to receive the ferrules 833 of thehybrid connector 820. The sleeves 864 can also be configured to receivecorresponding ferrules of the fiber optic connectors inserted within theports 854 defined by the inner part 852. In this way, sleeves 864 can beconfigured to optically connect the optical fibers of the hybridconnector 820 to corresponding optical fibers of the fiber opticconnectors mated with the ports 854 of the inner part 852. It will beappreciated that the ferrules 833 can fit inside the sleeves 864 and thefront sleeves 825 of the connector body 821 may slide over the sleeves864 of the hybrid adapter 836. The C-shaped portions 862 of the adapterelectrical contacts 860 are positioned such that ends of the C-shapedportions 862 are positioned on opposite sides of the sleeves 864. Inthis way, when the hybrid connector 820 is inserted within the hybridadapter 836, the C-shaped portions 862 flex apart and make grippingcontact with the connector electrical contacts 834.

Referring still to FIG. 20, the hybrid adapter 836 defines a connectorinsertion axis 866 that extends through the hybrid adapter 836. When thehybrid connector 820 is inserted into the hybrid adapter 836, thelongitudinal axis 824 of the hybrid connector 820 coaxially aligns withthe connector insertion axis 866 of the hybrid adapter 836.

In certain examples, the width W2 of the transverse cross-sectionalshape of the connector body 821 can be less than 2 centimeters and theheight H2 of the transverse cross-sectional shape of the connector body821 can be less than 1.5 centimeters.

Referring back to FIG. 19, the connection system 810 can include arobust active coupler for securely retaining the hybrid connector 820within the hybrid adapter 836. In certain examples, robust activecoupler is configured to retain the connector body 821 within the port853 of the hybrid adapter 836 so as to withstand a pull-out force of atleast 25 pounds. In other examples, robust active coupler is configuredto retain the connector body 821 within the port 853 of the hybridadapter 836 to withstand a pull-out force of at least 50 pounds.

Referring to FIG. 19, one example of a robust active coupler is shown asa slide clip 868. The slide clip 868 integrated as part of the hybridadapter 836 and is not carried with the hybrid connector 820. Thisallows the hybrid connector 820 to maintain a relatively smalltransverse cross-sectional profile. The slide clip 868 is slidablymounted to an outer end of the outer part 851. For example, the slideclip 868 includes rails 869 that slide within corresponding channels 870defined by the outer part 851 of the hybrid adapter 836. The slide clip868 defines an opening 872 for receiving the hybrid connector 820 whenthe hybrid connector is inserted into the hybrid adapter 836. Theopening 872 is elongated and has a matching transverse cross-sectionalshape with the connector body 821. As shown at FIG. 20, the slide clip868 includes a release tab 874 that is intersected by a reference plane875 that includes the connector insertion axis 866 as well as a majoraxis of the opening 872. The slide clip 868 includes retentionstructures 876 positioned on opposite sides of the reference plane 875.The retention structures 876 are positioned at major sides of theopening 872. Each of the retention structures 876 includes a ramp 877that faces at least partially in an outward direction. Each of theretention structures 876 also includes a retention surface 878 thatfaces in an inward direction.

The slide clip 868 is movable relative to the adapter housing 850between a coupling position and a non-coupling position. The slide clip868 slides along the channels 870 of the hybrid adapter 836 when movingbetween the coupling position and the non-coupling position. It will beappreciated that the direction of movement of the slide clip 868 betweenthe coupling position and the non-coupling position is generallytransverse relative to the connector insertion axis 866. The slide clip868 is configured to retain the connector body 821 within the port 853of the hybrid adapter 836 when in the coupling position. The slide clip868 is configured to allow the connector body 821 to be removed from theport 853 of the hybrid adapter 836 when in the non-coupling position.

In certain examples, the hybrid adapter 836 can be configured to biasthe slide clip 868 toward the coupling position. For example, referringto FIG. 19, the hybrid adapter 836 includes a spring such as a leafspring 880 that is configured to bias the slide clip 868 toward thecoupling position. The leaf spring 880 mounts within an elongate pocket881 defined within the release tab 874. The outer part 851 of theadapter housing 850 includes a spring reaction structure 882 thatcooperates with the leaf spring 880 to bias the slide clip 868 towardthe coupling position. Referring to FIG. 19, the slide clip 868 isloaded into the outer part 851 of the adapter housing 850 by insertingthe clip 868 upwardly such that the rails 869 are received within thechannels 870. The slide clip 868 is then slid upwardly until the releasetab 874 is positioned above the outer part 851 of the adapter housing850. It will be appreciated that the slide clip 868 includes a slot 883for allowing the spring reaction structure 882 to pass through the slideclip 868 as the slide clip is moved upwardly. Once the release tab 874is positioned higher than the spring reaction structure 882, the leafspring 880 is slid into the elongate retention pocket 881. As sopositioned, a free end of the leaf spring 880 is positioned directlyover the spring reaction structure 882. In this way, contact between thespring reaction structure 882 and the spring 880 prevents the slide clip868 from being removed downwardly from the adapter housing 850. Thespring reaction structure 882 has an angled top surface 884 that opposesthe underside of the leaf spring 880. A peak 885 of the angled topsurface 884 contacts the leaf spring 880. The angled configuration ofthe angle top surface 884 provides clearance for allowing the leafspring 880 to flex as the release tab 874 is manually depresseddownwardly to move the slide clip 868 from the coupling position to thenon-coupling position. Once the release tab 874 is released, theelasticity of the leaf spring 880 causes the slide clip 868 to return tothe coupling position from the non-coupling position.

To provide secure retention of the hybrid connector 820 within thehybrid adapter 836, the retention structures 876 of the slide clip 868are adapted to engage the connector body 821 on opposite sides of theconnector body 821. For example, in the depicted embodiment, theretention structures 876 engage the connector body 821 on both of themajor sides 846 of the connector body 821. Thus, the retentionstructures 876 engage the connector body 821 on opposite sides of themajor axis M1.

To mate the hybrid connector 820 with the hybrid adapter 836, the hybridconnector 820 is oriented such that the longitudinal axis 824 of thehybrid connector 820 coaxially aligns with the connector insertion axis866 of the hybrid adapter 836 (see FIGS. 20 and 21). As so positioned,the side notches 831 provided at the major sides 846 of the connectorbody 821 align with the retention structures 876 provided at the majorsides of the opening 872 of the slide clip 868. The hybrid connector 820is then inserted axially along the connector insertion axis 866 into thehybrid adapter 836. As the hybrid connector 820 is inserted into thehybrid adapter 836, the ramps 832 at the side notches 831 of the hybridconnector 820 engage the ramps 877 of the retention structures 876 ofthe hybrid adapter 836 (see FIG. 22). Contact between the ramps 832, 877as the hybrid connector 820 is continued to be inserted into the hybridadapter 836 causes the slide clip 868 to move from the coupling position(see FIG. 22) to the non-coupling position (see FIG. 23). Inwardinsertion of the hybrid connector 820 continues until the retentionsurface 830 of the retention flange 829 of the hybrid connector 820moves inwardly past the retention surfaces 878 at inner ends of theretention structures 876. When this occurs, the spring 880 biases thespring clip 868 back to the coupling position as shown at FIG. 24.

With the hybrid connector 820 fully inserted within the hybrid adapter836 and the slide clip 868 in the coupling position, the retentionsurfaces 830 defined by the retention flange 829 at the major sides 848of the connector body 821 are opposed by the retention surfaces 878 ofthe retention structures 876 of the slide clip 868. In this way,interference between the retention surfaces 830, 878 prevent the hybridconnector 820 from being withdrawn from the hybrid adapter 836. With thehybrid connector 820 fully inserted within the hybrid adapter 836, theferrules 833 are received within the sleeves 864 of the hybrid adapter836, the front sleeves 825 of the hybrid connector 820 fit over thesleeves 864 of the hybrid adapter 836, and the adapter electricalcontacts 860 engage the conductor electrical contacts 834.

To remove the hybrid connector 820 from the hybrid adapter 836, therelease tab 874 is manually depressed as shown at FIG. 25 to move theslide clip 868 from the coupling position to the non-coupling position.Once the slide clip 868 has been depressed to the non-coupling position,the hybrid connector 820 can be axially withdrawn from the hybridadapter 836.

Aspects of the present disclosure relate to hybrid connection systemsthat facilitate the fast, low cost and simple deployment of opticalfiber and electrical power to interface with active devices. In certainexamples, the hybrid connectivity system can provide power and opticalsignals to active devices in a local area network (LAN). In certainexamples, the active devices can include optical network terminals (ONT)within a building. The ONTs can be located at or near desktop locations.The ONTs can include circuitry for providing optical-to-electrical andelectrical-to-optical signal conversion. The ONTs can be coupled toactive devices such as computing devices. In other examples, the activedevices can include devices for generating wireless communicationcoverage areas (e.g., wireless transceivers) and other active devices(e.g., cameras, computing devices, monitors, etc.). In still otherexamples, systems in accordance with the principles of the presentdisclosure can provide power and fiber optics to a power-over-Ethernetextender. The power-over-Ethernet extender can includeoptical-to-electrical conversion circuitry for converting opticalsignals to electric signals that are transmitted through copper cablingsuch as twisted pair cabling. Electrical power provided to thepower-over-Ethernet extender can be directed over the twisted paircabling to provide power in a power-over-Ethernet format.

While aspects of the present disclosure have been shown used with hybridconnection systems, it will be appreciated that the various aspects arealso applicable to non-hybrid fiber optic connection systems andnon-hybrid electrical connection systems

Various modifications and alterations of this disclosure may becomeapparent to those skilled in the art without departing from the scopeand spirit of this disclosure, and it should be understood that thescope of this disclosure is not to be unduly limited to the illustrativeexamples set forth herein.

PARTS LIST

-   10 A system-   11 Base location-   12 a-f Equipment-   14 Structure-   16 Central office-   18 Multi-fiber optical trunk cable-   20 Hybrid cable-   22 Transceivers-   24 Radio Tower-   100 Outer jacket-   102 Major axis-   104 Minor axis-   106 Left portion-   108 Right portion-   110 Central portion-   112 Left passage-   114 Right passage-   116 Central passage-   118 Central longitudinal axis-   120 Left electrical conductor-   122 Right electrical conductor-   124 Optical fiber-   126 Left pre-defined tear location-   128 Right pre-defined tear location-   130 Top side-   132 Bottom side-   134 Upper slit-   136 Lower slit-   138 Non-slitted portion-   140 Jacket weakening members-   142 a-b Tensile strength structure-   144 Longitudinal edges/ends-   620 Fiber optical connector-   624 Electrical contacts-   626 Connector body-   627 Major sides-   628 Cylindrical sleeves-   629 Minor sides-   630 Intermediate structure-   632 Key feature-   634 First peripheral groove-   636 Second peripheral groove-   638 Adapter-   640 Receptacle-   642 Receptacle-   644 Alignment sleeves-   646 Locking element-   648 Flange-   650 Latch-   652 Electrical contacts-   654 Internal portions-   656 External portions-   658 First piece-   660 Second piece-   719 Connector body-   720 Connector-   721 Adapter-   722 Ferrules-   723 Shutters-   725 Electrical contacts-   746 Slide clip-   770 Ramp structures for moving shutters-   810 Connection system-   811 Hybrid cable-   812 Optical fibers-   813 Connector electrical contacts-   814 Port-   815 Structure forming enclosure-   820 Hybrid connector-   821 Connector body-   822 Front end-   823 Rear end-   824 Longitudinal axis of connector-   825 Front sleeves-   826 Key structure-   827 Peripheral groove-   828 Seal-   829 Retention flange-   830 Retention surface-   831 Side notches-   832 Ramps-   833 Ferrules-   834 Adapter electrical contacts-   835 Partial cylinder-   836 Hybrid adapter-   820 Hybrid connector-   838 Rear housing-   839 Forward portions-   840 Tabs-   841 Opening-   842 Receptacle-   843 Central opening-   844 Slits-   845 Outer sleeve-   846 Major sides-   847 Minor sides-   850 Adapter housing-   851 Outer part-   852 Inner part-   853 Outer port of adapter-   854 Inner ports of adapter-   856 Extensions-   857 Tabs-   858 Recess-   859 Tabs-   860 Adapter electrical contacts-   862 C-shaped portions-   863 Tabs-   864 Sleeves-   866 Connector insertion axis-   868 Slide clip-   869 Rails-   870 Channels-   872 Opening-   874 Release tab-   875 Reference plane-   876 Retention structure-   877 Ramp-   878 Retention surface-   880 Leaf spring-   881 Elongate pocket-   882 Spring reaction structure-   883 Slot-   884 Angled top surface-   885 Peak

What is claimed is:
 1. A hybrid fiber optic connector (620) comprising:a connector body (626) having a transverse cross-sectional shape, theconnector body including two generally cylindrical sleeves (628) at afront of the connector body, the two generally cylindrical sleeves (626)each including a separate ferrule (622) mounted therein; and electricalcontacts (624) that mount over the two generally cylindrical sleeves(628) so as to be carried with the connector body.
 2. The hybrid fiberoptic connector (620) of claim 1, wherein the transverse cross-sectionalshape of the connector body (626) is elongated and generally ovalshaped.
 3. The hybrid fiber optic connector (620) of claim 1, whereinthe connector (620) mates with an adapter (638) for optical couplingoptical fibers supported by the connector (620) to responding opticalfibers of other optical connectors.
 4. The hybrid fiber optic connector(620) of claim 3, wherein the connector body (626) defines a firstperipheral groove (634) and a second peripheral groove (636) adjacentthe first peripheral groove (634).
 5. The hybrid fiber optic connector(620) of claim 3, wherein the adapter (638) includes electrical contactsconfigured to engage the electrical contacts carried with the connectorbody.
 6. The hybrid fiber optic connector (620) of claim 3, furthercomprising an intermediate structure (63) positioned generally betweenthe two generally cylindrical sleeves (628).
 7. The hybrid fiber opticconnector (620) of claim 4, wherein the first peripheral groove (634)receives a sealing member.
 8. The hybrid fiber optic connector (620) ofclaim 4, wherein the second peripheral groove (636) is adapted forreceiving a retention member of the adapter (638) configured forreceiving the connector (620).
 9. The hybrid fiber optic connector (620)of claim 6, wherein the intermediate structure (630) includes a keyfeature that ensures the hybrid fiber optic connector (620) is insertedinto the adapter (638) at a suitable rotational orientation.
 10. Thehybrid fiber optic connector (620) of claim 7, wherein the sealingmember is an O-ring.
 11. The hybrid fiber optic connector (620) of claim7, further comprising a hybrid cable (20), wherein the connector (620)is mounted to an end of the hybrid cable (20).
 12. The hybrid fiberoptic connector (620) of claim 8, wherein the retention member is aslidable clip.
 13. The hybrid fiber optic connector (620) of claim 11,wherein the hybrid cable (20) includes electrical conductors (120, 122)and the electrical contacts (624) are adapted to be electricallyconnected to the electrical conductors (120, 122) of the hybrid cable(20).
 14. The hybrid fiber optic connector (620) of claim 12, whereinthe slidable clip is inserted in the second peripheral groove (636) ofthe connector (620) and can be moved from a non-retaining position to aretaining position.
 15. The hybrid fiber optic connector (620) of claim14, wherein the adapter (638) includes structures (770) forautomatically moving ferrule shutters of the fiber optic connector froma closed position to an open position as the connector (620) is insertedwithin the adapter (638).
 16. A fiber optic connector comprising: aconnector body that supports first and second ferrules (722) eachsupporting an optical fiber; and first and second shutters (723)pivotally movable relative to the connector body between open and closedpositions, the first shutter corresponding to the first ferrule and thesecond shutter corresponding to the second ferrule, wherein end faces ofthe first and second ferrules are covered when the first and secondshutters are in the closed position, and wherein end faces of the firstand second ferrules are accessible when the first and second shuttersare in the open position.
 17. The fiber optic connector, furthercomprising electrical contacts (725) mounted in a region between thefirst and second ferrules.
 18. A hybrid fiber optic connectorcomprising: a connector body that supports first and second ferrules(723) each supporting an optical fiber; and electrical contacts (725)mounted in a region between the first and second ferrules.
 19. Thehybrid fiber optic connector of claim 18, wherein the connector body hasa transverse cross-sectional shape that is elongated along a major axis,and wherein the first and second ferrules are positioned along the majoraxis.
 20. A fiber optic connection system comprising: a connector body(821) that supports at least one ferrule (833) supporting at least oneoptical fiber (812); a fiber optic adapter (836) defining a port (853)for receiving the connector body; an environmental seal (828) forproviding a seal between the connector body and the fiber optic adapter;and a robust active coupler (868) included with the fiber optic adapterand not carried with the connector body, the robust active coupler beingmovable relative to the port of the fiber optic adapter and beingconfigured to retain the connector body within the port, the robustactive coupler being configured to retain the connector body within theport so as to withstand a pull-out force of at least 25 pounds.
 21. Thefiber optic connection system of claim 20, wherein the robust activecoupler is slidably movable between a coupling position and non-couplingposition, the robust active coupler being configured to retain theconnector body within the port when in the coupling position, the robustactive coupler being configured to allow removal of the connector bodyfrom the port when in the non-coupling position.
 22. The fiber opticconnection system of claim 21, wherein the robust active coupler is aslide clip.
 23. The fiber optic connection system of claim 22, whereinwhen the robust active coupler is in the coupling position the robustactive coupler engages the connector body at retention locationspositioned at opposite sides of the connector body.
 24. The fiber opticconnection system of claim 23, wherein the connector body has atransverse cross-sectional shape that is elongated along a major axis,and wherein the retention locations are on opposite side of the majoraxis.
 25. The fiber optic connections system of claim 21, wherein therobust active coupler is spring biased toward the coupling position by aspring.
 26. The fiber optic connection system of claim 24, wherein theconnector body supports at least two ferrules positioned along the majoraxis.
 27. The fiber optic connection system of claim 26, wherein thetransverse cross-section shape of the connector body has a smallform-factor with a maximum width less than 2 centimeters along the majoraxis and a maximum height less than 1.5 centimeters along a minor axis.28. The fiber optic connection system of claim 25, further comprising aramp arrangement for automatically moving the robust active coupleragainst the bias of the spring from the coupling position to thenon-coupling position while the connector body is being inserted in theport, wherein the spring returns the robust active coupler to thecoupling position once the connector body has been fully inserted in theport.
 29. The fiber optic connection system of claim 20, wherein therobust active coupler is configured to retain the connector body withinthe port so as to withstand a pull-out force of at least 50 pounds. 30.The fiber optic connection system of any of claims 20-29, furthercomprising electrical contacts carried with the connector body.
 31. Afiber optic connection system comprising: a connector body (821) thatsupports at least one ferrule (833) supporting at least one opticalfiber (812); a fiber optic adapter (836) defining a port (853) forreceiving the connector body; and a slide clip (868) included with thefiber optic adapter and not carried with the connector body, the slideclip being movable relative to the port of the fiber optic adapterbetween a coupling position and non-coupling position, the slide clipbeing configured to retain the connector body within the port when inthe coupling position, the slide clip being configured to allow removalof the connector body from the port when in the non-coupling position.32. The fiber optic connection system of claim 31, wherein when theslide clip is in the coupling position the slide clip engages theconnector body at retention locations positioned at opposite sides ofthe connector body.
 33. The fiber optic connection system of claim 32,wherein the connector body has a transverse cross-sectional shape thatis elongated along a major axis, and wherein the retention locations areon opposite side of the major axis.
 34. The fiber optic connectionssystem of claim 32, wherein the slide clip is spring biased toward thecoupling position by a spring.
 35. The fiber optic connection system ofclaim 33, wherein the connector body supports at least two ferrulespositioned along the major axis.
 36. The fiber optic connection systemof claim 35, wherein the transverse cross-section shape of the connectorbody has a small form-factor with a maximum width less than 2centimeters along the major axis and a maximum height less than 1.5centimeters along a minor axis.
 37. The fiber optic connection system ofclaim 34, further comprising a ramp arrangement for automatically movingthe slide clip against the bias of the spring from the coupling positionto the non-coupling position while the connector body is being insertedin the port, wherein the spring returns the spring clip to the couplingposition once the connector body has been fully inserted in the port.38. The fiber optic connection system of any of claims 31-37, furthercomprising electrical contacts carried with the connector body.
 39. Thefiber optic connection system of claim 31, further comprising anenvironmental seal for providing a seal between the connector body andthe fiber optic adapter.
 40. A hardened fiber optic connection systemcomprising: a fiber optic connector (820) defining a longitudinal axis(824); a fiber optic adapter (836) defining a port (853) for receivingthe fiber optic connector; a seal (828) for providing environmentalsealing between the fiber optic connector and the fiber optic adapterwhen the fiber optic connector is received within the port of the fiberoptic adapter; a retention clip (868) mounted on the fiber opticconnector or the fiber optic adapter for retaining the fiber opticconnector within the port of the fiber optic adapter, the retention clipbeing configured to slide in a transverse orientation relative to thelongitudinal axis between a coupling position and a non-couplingposition; a spring (880) for biasing the retention clip towards thecoupling position; the retention clip sliding from the coupling positionto the non-coupling position as the fiber optic connector is axiallyinserted into the port of the fiber optic adapter, and the spring movingthe retention clip from the non-coupling position back to the couplingposition once the fiber optic connector has been fully axially insertedinto the port of the fiber optic adapter.
 41. The hardened fiber opticconnection system of claim 40, wherein the retention clip is slidablymounted to the fiber optic adapter.
 42. The hardened fiber opticconnection system of claim 41, wherein the fiber optic adapter defines aconnector insertion axis that aligns with the longitudinal axis of thefiber optic connector when the fiber optic connector is inserted intothe port of the fiber optic adapter, wherein the retention clip includesretaining structures positioned on first and second opposite sides of areference plane that includes the connector insertion axis, wherein thefirst and second retaining structures are adapted to engage oppositesides of the fiber optic connector to retain the fiber optic connectorwithin the fiber optic adapter, wherein the retention clip also includesa release tab intersected by the reference plane, and wherein therelease tab is manually pressed along the reference plane against a biasof the spring to manually move the retention clip from the couplingposition to the non-coupling position.
 43. The hardened fiber opticconnection system of claim 42, wherein the retention clip defines anopening through which the fiber optic connector is inserted as the fiberoptic connector is axially inserted into the port of the fiber opticadapter.
 44. The hardened fiber optic connection system of claim 43,wherein the retaining structures include ramp surfaces that engage rampsurfaces of the fiber optic connector when the fiber optic connector isinserted into the port of the fiber optic adapter to cause the retentionclip to move from the coupling position to the non-coupling position asthe fiber optic connector is inserted into the port of the fiber opticadapter.
 45. The hardened fiber optic connection system of claim 44,wherein the retention clip is spring biased back to the couplingposition when the fiber optic connector is fully inserted in the fiberoptic adapter.